On this date in 2005, Bangladesh achieved their first-ever Test victory, triumphing over Zimbabwe by 226 runs in Chittagong. This significant milestone was reached during their 35th Test match, more than four years after they were granted Test status in 2000.

The opening Test of the series was held at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chittagong, where Bangladesh amassed 488 runs in their first innings, with key performances from Habibul Bashar (94), Rajin Saleh (89), and Mohammad Rafique (69). In reply, Zimbabwe scored 312 runs, resulting in a substantial first-innings lead of 176 runs for Bangladesh. In their second innings, Bangladesh declared at 204 for 9, setting a target of 381 runs for Zimbabwe. Ultimately, Zimbabwe was dismissed for 154 runs, securing a 226-run victory for Bangladesh.

Establishing a solid groundwork

Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first, with the intention of setting a formidable total. Captain Habibul Bashar spearheaded the batting effort, scoring an impressive 94 runs, just shy of a century. Allrounder Mohammad Rafique added a significant 69 runs, enhancing the team's standing. The lower order also played a vital role, with Mashrafe Mortaza contributing a brisk 48 runs off 44 deliveries, propelling Bangladesh's total to 488.

Zimbabwe's response was lacklustre as they found it difficult to form effective partnerships until captain Tatenda Taibu (92) and Elton Chigumbura (71) provided some resistance in the middle order. For Bangladesh, left-arm spinner Mohammad Rafique was pivotal with the ball, taking 5 wickets for 65 runs, leading to Zimbabwe's all-out score of 312.

In their second innings, Bangladesh aimed to set a daunting target for Zimbabwe. Once again, Habibul Bashar delivered, scoring 55 runs. Support from the middle and lower order enabled Bangladesh to declare at 204 for 9, thereby setting Zimbabwe a challenging target of 381 runs for victory.

Enamul Haque Jr's heroics

Zimbabwe's batting order struggled significantly when confronted with a challenging target. Enamul Haque Jr, a 19-year-old left-arm spinner, showcased an exceptional performance, claiming 6 wickets for 45 runs. His remarkable contribution was instrumental in dismissing Zimbabwe for a total of 154 runs, thereby securing a momentous victory for Bangladesh.

This achievement represented a pivotal moment for Bangladesh cricket, signifying their rise on the global stage. The win marked the end of a lengthy period without success in Test cricket and was met with widespread celebration across the nation. Following this landmark victory, Bangladesh managed to draw the second Test against Zimbabwe, ultimately achieving their first Test series win.

Bangladesh's subsequent Test victory occurred four years later against a West Indies team that was significantly weakened due to the absence of several key players as a result of a strike.

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